Developers pitch Park Plaza retail concept for North Main; commission gives positive design feedback
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Summary
Architect Frank Foladez and investor Richard Lee presented a concept for Park Plaza (roughly 605–623 North Main): a one‑story, roughly 12,000 sq ft retail center with cafes, extended sidewalks, a fountain and low‑impact stormwater measures; the item was discussion‑only and applicants were told to return with demolition and COA applications if they close on the property.
Developers presented a concept March 3 to the Boerne Historical Landmark Commission for a Park Plaza retail project on North Main that they said is intended to extend pedestrian activity and the character of the Hill Country Mile.
Architect Frank Foladez of SA Partnership Architects, speaking on behalf of owner Richard Lee, described a proposed one‑story, approximately 12,000‑square‑foot retail center that would replace an existing building and include boutique shops, cafes and restaurants. "We're gonna propose building a new 1 story, 12,000 square foot retail center that would attract high quality restaurants," Foladez said, adding that the plan calls for extending the sidewalk, adding low fencing and landscaping, a fountain at the plaza center and parking in the rear to prioritize pedestrians along Main Street.
Foladez and Lee emphasized low‑impact development elements — pavers to allow water percolation, water capture tanks and a landscaped buffer — and said the design would add a promenadelike connection to the Hill Country Mile. Commissioners responded favorably, noting the plan's potential to bring more activity north on Main and asking for further design details and traffic access plans when the applicants return with a formal COA and demolition permit.
The item was for discussion only; applicants said they would return with more detailed drawings and formal applications after purchase closing and additional design development. No formal vote was taken.